This extraordinary vintage Santo Domingo necklace is a masterwork of Pueblo beadwork tradition in its most authentic and ceremonially rooted form. Four continuous strands of hand-cut natural turquoise tube heishi beads — vivid robin’s egg blue with characteristic dark matrix, each cylinder cut to a generous diameter that gives the strands a bold, substantial presence — flow together in a lush rope that closes at the back with a hand-tied natural fiber cord knot closure, two red coral tube bead accents flanking the tie point in the traditional Santo Domingo manner. The natural cord closure is not merely functional — it is a deliberate design element, a nod to the pre-metalwork beadwork traditions of the Pueblo people and a mark of authenticity that distinguishes handmade Santo Domingo work from later commercial production.

From the front of the necklace, four cascading Jacla strands of matching turquoise tube heishi descend approximately 5 inches, each strand terminating in a beautifully hand-carved white mother of pearl fetish tab. The MOP tabs are carved with clean, confident lines, their warm ivory luster a perfect counterpoint to the vivid turquoise of the heishi strands. The Jacla — a traditional Pueblo ear bob form repurposed here as a dramatic pendant drop — creates a cascading fringe of turquoise and shell that moves with the wearer, the carved tabs catching the light with every step.

Artisan Heritage

Made by a skilled Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo) beadwork artist. The hand-tied cord closure with coral accent beads is a hallmark of traditional Santo Domingo heishi necklace construction — a technique passed down through generations of Pueblo beadworkers and a reliable indicator of authentic handmade origin. The carved mother of pearl Jacla tabs are a classic Santo Domingo finishing element, combining lapidary skill with deep cultural symbolism.

Specifications

Tribe: Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo)
Style: 4-Strand Turquoise Tube Heishi Necklace with MOP Fetish Jacla Drop
Materials: Natural turquoise tube heishi beads, red coral tube accent beads, hand-tied natural fiber cord closure, carved white mother of pearl fetish tab terminals (bear paw/cloud hand form)
Strands: 4 (necklace) + 4 Jacla drop strands
Necklace Length: 26"
Jacla Drop Length: Approx. 5"
Hallmark: None
Condition: Excellent vintage condition; strands intact, cord closure secure, all MOP tabs present

This is a one-of-a-kind estate piece. Authenticity, artistry, and heritage are at the heart of every item we offer at Black Arrow Gallery.